The Ukrainian Defence Intelligence has confirmed the death of yet another Nigerian national, Ayebusiwa Olabode Victor, who was killed while fighting alongside Russian forces in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. According to a statement released on Thursday by Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) and the national news agency Ukrinform, Victor was killed in combat operations in the Kharkiv region near the settlement of Hrafske.The 34-year-old, born on April 28, 1992, hailed from Ilutitun in Ondo State, Nigeria. He reportedly signed a mercenary contract with the Russian side in late February 2026 — barely one week after Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong warning to citizens against illegal recruitment into foreign conflicts. Ukrainian authorities described Victor’s story as “typical” of many foreign recruits: lured with promises of good jobs and quick money, given minimal training, and rapidly deployed to the frontlines, resulting in a swift death. The intelligence agency detailed alleged deceptive recruitment tactics targeting Africans, including Nigerians. It claimed networks use social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp to make false job offers. Upon arrival in Moscow, recruits reportedly have their passports seized, are told there is no job, and are left with harsh choices: deportation with debt, imprisonment, or signing a contract to fight for Russia. The report further revealed that at least 215 Nigerians have signed contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defence, with around 25 either confirmed dead or missing in action. This latest incident adds to a growing list of Nigerian casualties in the conflict and has heightened concerns over the exploitation of young Africans in the war. Ukrainian officials urged Nigerians to resist such recruitment drives and avoid involvement in what they described as an “illegal war.”The Nigerian government has consistently warned its citizens against participating in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, stressing that Nigeria is not a party to the war and that involvement carries serious legal and security risks.As the war enters its fifth year with no end in sight, the deaths of young Nigerians fighting on the Russian side continue to spark outrage and calls for stronger government action against recruitment syndicates. May his soul rest in peace. This story is developing. What are your thoughts on Nigerians being recruited into foreign wars? Drop your comments below.
